WO2011032205A1

WO2011032205A1 - Methods, systems and devices for facilitating data access

Info

Publication number: WO2011032205A1
Application number: PCT/AU2010/001192
Authority: WO
Inventors: Jason Hine; Ross Andrews; Sean Liew
Original assignee: Power & Data Corporation Pty Ltd
Priority date: 2009-09-16
Filing date: 2010-09-15
Publication date: 2011-03-24
Also published as: TW201136207A; AR078287A1

Abstract

Described herein are systems, devices and methods for facilitating data access. In overview, some embodiments provide an elongate housing that is mountable to a wall. One or more elongate conductors are supported in the housing, these conductors being configured for providing multipoint/multidrop access to a network. In some cases the conductors take the form of electrical conductors, which may be spirally wound about an insulating core, or linear. In other cases the conductors include optic fibers.

Description

METHODS, SYSTEMS, AND DEVICES FOR

FACILITATING DATA ACCESS

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to methods, systems, and devices for facilitating data access, for instance so as to facilitate data transfer. Embodiments of the invention have been particularly developed for allowing wired network access (for example Ethernet) at multiple locations in a room or building, via a multipoint/multidrop network topology. While some embodiments will be described herein with particular reference to that application, it will be appreciated that the invention is not limited to such a field of use, and is applicable in broader contexts.

BACKGROUND

[0002] Any discussion of the background art throughout the specification should in no way be considered as an admission that such art is widely known or forms part of common general knowledge in the field.

[0003] A conventional approach for providing network connectivity in a building is to run individual insulated data cables (primarily Ethernet cables) through wall and ceiling cavities, and provide connection sockets at various accessible locations. This is commonly referred to as a point-to-point network topology and is similar to the manner in which a building is wired for telecommunications and electricity purposes. Although this approach is by far the most widely implemented, it is by no means ideal. A significant disadvantage stems from the number of cables required, as each wall socket is individually wired from a network switch and/or router. Further problems include difficulties in installing wires, and the cost/effort involved in having a further connection socket installed at a new location.

[0004] There are various alternatives to this conventional approach, including wireless networking (for example based on an 802.11 type standard), or power line networking (whereby data is transmitted via an existing electrical power network). However, these have their own limitations and disadvantages. [0005] There is a need in the art for improved methods, systems, and devices for facilitating data access.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0006] It is an object of the present invention to overcome or ameliorate at least one of the disadvantages of the prior art, or to provide a useful alternative.

[0007] One embodiment provides a system for facilitating data access, the system including:

[0008] one or more elongate insulating cores;

[0009] for the or each core, a pair of uninsulated conductors supported on the core, wherein the conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core;

[0010] an elongate housing for supporting the insulating core or cores, the housing having a longitudinal channel formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member at multiple points along the length of the housing; and

[0011] a connector member insertable into the channel, wherein the connector member is configured for electrically coupling to the uninsulated conductors following insertion into the channel.

[0012] One embodiment provides a system the pair of uninsulated conductors provide an exposed twisted pair arrangement.

[0013] One embodiment provides a system wherein for the or each core, more than one pair of uninsulated conductors supported on the core, wherein the conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core.

[0014] One embodiment provides a system wherein the pair of twisted conductors are connectable to a data network as a twisted pair arrangement, such that the twisted conductors allow connection to the data network at multiple locations along the length of the housing.

[0015] One embodiment provides a system wherein the connector member includes a network plug connection for allowing connection of a networkable device to the data network. [0016] One embodiment provides a system wherein the or each core includes guide formations for maintaining the uninsulated conductors supported thereon in a predefined configuration.

[0017] One embodiment provides a system wherein the or each core includes a locating arrangement which interacts with a complementary locating arrangement on the connector member such that, upon insertion, the connector member is guided to a predetermined engagement configuration.

[0018] One embodiment provides a system wherein the locating arrangement prevents electrical connections from being reversed in polarity.

[0019] One embodiment provides a system wherein the locating arrangement includes one or more radially extending separator formations.

[0020] One embodiment provides a system wherein the locating arrangement includes a radially extending separator formation spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core.

[0021] One embodiment provides a system wherein the locating arrangement includes an array of apertures formed in the core, and wherein the complementary locating arrangement includes one or more protrusions for insertion in a respective one or more of the apertures of the array.

[0022] One embodiment provides a system wherein the housing is rigid.

[0023] One embodiment provides a system including a network adapter for allowing networked data transfer via the conductors.

[0024] One embodiment provides a system wherein the connector member, following insertion into the channel, is selectively movable in to and out of an operative configuration wherein the connector member is electrically coupled to the uninsulated conductors.

[0025] One embodiment provides a system wherein, for the or each core, multiple pairs of uninsulated conductors supported are on the core, wherein the conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core; [0026] One embodiment provides a core member configured for use in a system as described herein.

[0027] One embodiment provides a housing configured for use in a system as described herein.

[0028] One embodiment provides a connector member configured for use in a system as described herein.

[0029] One embodiment provides a method for facilitating data access, the method including:

[0030] providing a system as described herein

[0031] connecting the or each pair of uninsulated conductors to a first network adapter;

[0032] providing the connector member with a second network adapter, such that the electrical coupling of the connector member to the uninsulated conductors connects uninsulated conductors to the second network adapter, such that data is transferable between the first and second network adapters via the uninsulated conductors.

[0033] One embodiment provides a component for use in system for facilitating data access, the component including:

[0034] an elongate body; and

[0035] a pair of conductor retaining channels formed in the body, the channels being spirally wound about the body along the axis of the body for supporting a pair of uninsulated conductors, wherein the pair of conductors operate as a twisted pair for the purposes of data access.

[0036] One embodiment provides a method for facilitating data access, the method including:

[0037] spirally winding a pair of uninsulated conductors about an elongate insulating core;

[0038] locating the insulating core in a housing, the housing being configured for allowing external connection to the uninsulated conductors at various positions along the length of the housing. [0039] One embodiment provides a system for facilitating data access, the system including:

[0040] at least one elongate insulating core having a pair of uninsulated conductors supported thereon, wherein the conductors are spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core;

[0041] an elongate housing for supporting the insulating core or cores, the housing having a longitudinal channel formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member at varied points along the length of the housing, thereby to allow electrically coupling of the connector member to the uninsulated conductors.

[0042] One embodiment provides a system for facilitating data access, the system including:

[0043] an elongate insulating core; and

[0044] a pair of conductors supported by the core, wherein the conductors are at least partially uninsulated for allowing electrical connection to the conductors via mechanical coupling at multiple points along the length of the core;

[0045] wherein the pair of conductors are configured for data transfer.

[0046] One embodiment provides a system wherein the pair of conductors functionally provide a twisted pair arrangement.

[0047] One embodiment provides a system for facilitating data access, the system including:

[0048] an elongate housing mountable to a wall;

[0049] one or more elongate conductors supported in the housing, wherein the conductors are configured for providing a multipoint access to a network.

[0050] Other embodiments provide subject matter including one or more features substantially as herein described.

[0051] As used herein, the term "conductor" should be read broadly to as a "data conductor". That is, the term is used to describe a medium over which data is able to be carried. In some embodiments this includes conductors in the form of wlectrical conductors, which data by way of electrical signals. In other embodiments the conductors include optic fiber, which carry data by way of optic signals. In this manner, the term "conductor" is by no means limited to electrical conductors, unless specifically required by the context.

[0052] As used herein, the term "data", in the context of data being carried by a conductor, includes computer network communications data, telephony data, and so on.

[0053] The terms :multipoint" and "multidrop" describe an arrangement whereby network connection is achievable by connection at multiple points along a length of a data conducting element (for example a housing including one or more data conductors).

[0054] Reference throughout this specification to "one embodiment", "some embodiments" or "an embodiment" means that a particular feature, structure or characteristic described in connection with the embodiment is included in at least one embodiment of the present invention. Thus, appearances of the phrases "in one embodiment", "in some embodiments" or "in an embodiment" in various places throughout this specification are not necessarily all referring to the same embodiment, but may. Furthermore, the particular features, structures or characteristics may be combined in any suitable manner, as would be apparent to one of ordinary skill in the art from this disclosure, in one or more embodiments.

[0055] As used herein, unless otherwise specified the use of the ordinal adjectives "first", "second", "third", etc., to describe a common object, merely indicate that different instances of like objects are being referred to, and are not intended to imply that the objects so described must be in a given sequence, either temporally, spatially, in ranking, or in any other manner.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0056] Preferred embodiments of the invention will now be described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings in which:

[0057] FIG. 1 provides a semi-transparent rear perspective view of a system according to one embodiment. [0058] FIG. 2 provides a semi-transparent rear perspective view similar to that of FIG. 1, but showing a connector member out of its operative configuration.

[0059] FIG. 3 provides a perspective side view of the system of FIG. 1, showing a pair of insulated cores partially inserted into a length of housing.

[0060] FIG. 4A provides a side view of an insulating core according to one embodiment, shown supporting a pair of uninsulated conductors.

[0061] FIG. 4B provides an end view of the insulating core of FIG. 4A.

[0062] FIG. 5A provides a side view of an insulating core according to one embodiment, shown supporting two pairs of uninsulated conductors.

[0063] FIG. 5B provides an end view of the insulating core of FIG. 5A.

[0064] FIG. 6 provides a front view of a system according to one embodiment.

[0065] FIG. 7A provides a front perspective view of a housing for use in a system according to one embodiment.

[0066] FIG. 7B provides a front view of the housing of FIG. 7A.

[0067] FIG. 7C provides a side view of the housing of FIG. 7A.

[0068] FIG. 8A provides a front perspective view of a connector member for use in a system according to one embodiment.

[0069] FIG. 8B provides a rear perspective view of the connector member of FIG. 8A.

[0070] FIG. 9A provides a further rear perspective view of the connector member of FIG. 8A, shown in an operative configuration.

[0071] FIG. 9B provides a further rear perspective view of the connector member of FIG. 8A, shown in an inoperative configuration.

[0072] FIG. 10A provides a rear view of the connector member of FIG. 8 A, shown in an operative configuration.

[0073] FIG. 10B provides a side view of the connector member of FIG. 8 A, shown in an operative configuration, inserted into a housing according to one embodiment. [0074] FIG. IOC provides a side view of the connector member of FIG. 8 A, shown in an operative configuration.

[0075] FIG. 11A provides a rear view of the connector member of FIG. 8A, shown in an operative configuration.

[0076] FIG. 1 IB provides a sectional view along the line A-A of FIG, 11 A

[0077] FIG. 12 provides a not-to-scale schematic network diagram according to one embodiment.

[0078] FIG. 13 provides a cut-away sectional view of a system according to one embodiment.

[0079] FIG. 14 provides a perspective view of a system according to one embodiment.

[0080] FIG. 15 shows an insulating core and twisted pair arrangement for the embodiment of FIG. 14.

[0081] FIG. 16 is a further perspective view of the embodiment of FIG. 14.

[0082] FIG. 17 is a perspective cutaway view of the embodiment of FIG. 14.

[0083] FIG. 18A provides a perspective view of an insulating core according to one embodiment, shown supporting a pair of uninsulated conductors.

[0084] FIG. 18B provides a side view of the insulating core of FIG. 18A.

[0085] FIG. 19 provides a perspective view of an insulating core according to one embodiment, shown supporting a pair of uninsulated conductors.

[0086] FIG. 20 shows a physical connection between optically polished faces of a pair of optic fibers.

[0087] FIG. 21 provides an abstracted view of an optic arrangement according to one embodiment.

[0088] FIG. 22 provides an abstracted view of an optic arrangement according to another embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0089] Described herein are systems, devices and methods for facilitating data access.

In overview, some embodiments provide an elongate housing that is mountable to a wall. One or more elongate conductors are supported in the housing, these conductors being configured for providing multipoint/multidrop access to a network. In some cases the conductors take the form of electrical conductors, which may be spirally wound about an insulating core, or linear. In other cases the conductors include optic fibers.

TECHNOLOGICAL OVERVIEW- TWISTED PAIR ARRANGEMENT

[0090] One embodiment takes the form of a system including one or more elongate insulating cores. For each core, at least one pair of uninsulated conductors is supported on the core. These conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core, thereby to provide an exposed twisted pair arrangement. An elongate housing supports the insulating core or cores. This housing has a longitudinal channel formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member at varied points along the length of the housing. The system additionally includes a connector member insertable into the channel. This connector member is configured for electrically coupling to the uninsulated conductors following insertion into the channel.

[0091] Twisted cable pair cabling is a form of wiring in which two conductors (typically copper), which represent two halves of a single circuit, are wound together for the purposes of cancelling out electromagnetic interference from external sources, as well as electromagnetic fields generated by the current in the conductors. Such arrangements are common in data networking applications, in which a conventional approach is to contain multiple insulated twisted pairs within a common insulating housing, with a connector (such as an RJ-45 connector) at each end. The twisting allows the conductors to remain in close proximity such that through mutual induction, current flowing out to a load causes a return current to flow in the opposite direction. By twisting, the pair remains in close proximity while tending to cancel the produced magnetic field.

[0092] Embodiments of the present invention use the general concept of a twisted pair arrangement, but apply it in a different manner. In particular, rather than containing a twisted pair in an insulated housing, two uninsulated conductors, which define a pair, are spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core. This, whilst not being a "twisted pair" in the conventional sense, is for the present considered to be a "twisted pair arrangement" in the sense that the two conductors functionally represent a twisted pair, and the nature by which they are spirally wound about the insulating core yields similar behaviors to a conventional twisted pair.

[0093] As used herein, the term "twisted pair arrangement" refers to a pair of conductors that function in the manner of a twisted pair (for example in terms of data transmission capabilities), but are not necessarily twisted in the conventional manner. For example, the present embodiments are focused on a "twisted pair arrangement" whereby the pair of conductors are exposed and spirally wound on an insulating core (also referred to herein as an "insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement").

[0094] The present insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement approach allows data to be carried on the conductors over relatively long distances with minimal transmission losses. Furthermore, given that the conductors are uninsulated the exposed nature of the resulting twisted pair arrangement means that connection is possible at substantially any point along the length of the core (i.e. a "multipoint" or "multidrop" arrangement). For example, connection is readily achieved by physical contact of a set of connection terminals to the uninsulated conductors.

[0095] The term "multidrop" is used to describe an arrangement whereby electrical connection is possible at multiple locations along the length of a conductor, as is the case with system 1. The term "multipoint" is used in the context of a network to describe an arrangement where multiple network connections are made over a common medium (such as a pair of elongate conductors). System 1 is presently used to provide a multipoint/multidrop network arrangement whereby network access is possible by way of connection at substantially any point along the length of housing 4.

[0096] Although embodiments described herein generally assume that uninsulated conductors are uninsulated along their entire lengths, in some cases an "uninsulated" conductor is partially insulated, and uninsulated only at certain regions (for example at regions where multipoint/multidrop connection is to be achieved). [0097] In general terms, an insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement, as described above, is able to be incorporated into a system for facilitating data access. For example, by connecting the twisted pairs to appropriate network adapters, it is possible to use such an arrangement for the purpose of a multipoint/multidrop Ethernet network. More specifically, using known network adapters (such as those configured for Ethernet-over-coax applications), it is possible for a large number of networkable devices to connect to a common network by connecting to the twisted pair arrangement at different points along its length.

[0098] Some embodiments of the present invention combine the present insulated core/twisted pair arrangement concept with that of track-based power distribution (for example as described in PCT/AU03/01691). In this manner, insulated cores with exposed pair wound thereon are contained within rigid housings which are, for example, mounted along walls in a building in a similar manner to track-based power distribution components. Indeed, in some embodiments of the present invention, power distribution components (such as elongate conductors) are provided in combination with insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangements in a single housing (or in adjacent housings) thereby to provide a combined track based power and data distribution system.

[0099] At a general level, various embodiments provide systems for facilitating data access, for example in the form of a data distribution system, wherein an insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement (or, more preferable, a plurality of such arrangements) is supported within a rigid housing. The housing includes a longitudinal channel for allowing an external component to access (and make electrical contact with) the twisted pair (or pairs). For example, some systems include a purpose built connector member that is configured for insertion into the housing, and configured for electrically coupling to the uninsulated conductors following insertion into the housing. This connector is ideally able to be inserted at various positions along the length of the housing (for example through an elongate channel defining an opening along the length of the housing), allowing for convenient access to network connection points. This is, from an end-user perspective, much like the manner in which a track-based power distribution arrangement provides convenient access to power connection points.

[00100] Various embodiments are discussed below. EXEMPLARY EMBODIMENT

[00101 ] A first exemplary embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 1 to FIG. 12. It should be appreciated that various design features of this embodiments are preferred features only, and should not be regarded as limiting. In particular, alternate embodiments share core concepts underlying the present technology (particularly an insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement), but in combination with different features relating to design and implementation.

[00102] In the diagrams, corresponding components and features are designated by corresponding reference numerals. However, in some cases reference numerals for detailed features are omitted in the more generic figures for the sake of simplicity.

[00103] FIG. 1 provides a semi-transparent rear perspective view of a system 1 according to one embodiment. This is a rear view in the sense that it is directed towards a side of the system that would, in use, be mounted to a wall. A housing component is shown in a transparent form to allow illustration of components contained therein and hidden thereby.

[00104] System 1 includes a pair of elongate insulating cores 2A and 2B. In the present embodiment, these cores are of the same shape and configuration. A pair of uninsulated conductors is supported on each core. For the present purposes, each pair includes a conductor 3 A and a conductor 3B, which typically represent being halves of a common circuit.

[00105] Cables 3A and 3B are each spirally wound about their respective core. In this manner, they are wound around the core, and progress longitudinally along the axis of the core with each wind. The spiral winding of conductors 3A and 3B define a respective twisted pair arrangement for each core. The winding is preferably regular and continuous, with between approximately 1 and 5 turns per inch, or more preferably between 2 and 4 turns per inch. In some embodiments a greater number of turns are present.

[00106] It will be recognized that the provision of two twisted pairs in the present embodiment (respectively wound on cores 2A and 2B) allows for data transmission. For example, data communications using 10BASE-T and 100BASE-TX standards make use of two twisted pairs. Furthermore, the conductors are able to be coupled conveniently coupled to an Ethernet socket, plug or conductor at either end of the system, or via a connector member 6 configured to provide an "input" network adapter (for example by way of a PCB housed inside the connector member).

[00107] Other embodiments include additional twisted pairs for allowing the implementation of other standards, achieved by either winding additional pairs onto each core (for example as shown in FIG. 5A), or by providing additional cores similar to cores 2A and 2B.

[00108] An elongate housing 4 supports insulating cores 2A and 2B. This housing has a longitudinal channel 5 formed therein for allowing insertion and securing of a connector member 6. at varied points along the length of housing 4. In some embodiments these varied points include substantially any point along the length of the housing. For the present purposes, the phrase "substantially any point along the length of the housing" should be interpreted to mean at points separated by a distance of less than 10cm (or more preferable less then 5cm), excluding regions at the longitudinal extremities. That is, it is not necessary that any position be possible; simply that insertion is possible within about 10cm of any position, other than adjacent the longitudinal extremities. It will be appreciated that matters of design will impact on the available positions.

[00109] In some embodiments the housing is modular, in the sense that multiple housing members are connectable end-to-end to define a longer housing (for example in some cases they are snap-lockable to one another). In some cases, housings are cut to size for a given application. For example, the present embodiments provide housings that are well suited for wall mounting, ideally at floor level or slightly above floor level. The rear face, being the face opposite that in which channel 5 is formed, is mounted to the wall. This mounting may be achieved by mechanical (e.g. screws) or chemical (e.g. adhesive) means. For some applications, corner members are constructed to allow system 1 to traverse a corner between adjacent walls. Noting that the present cores are rigid, these cores are generally not used through corner members. Rather, the cables are in some cases coupled to conventional twisted pairs (for example in an Ethernet cable) for connection between elongate housings via a corner member. [001 10] Connector member 6 is configured for mechanically coupling to the uninsulated conductors 3A and 3B (noting that in this embodiment there are two conductors 3A and two conductors 3B, with each combination of a conductor 3 A and 3B defining a twisted pair arrangement) following insertion into channel 5, with this mechanical coupling resulting in an electrical connection. That is, by way of the mechanical coupling, connector member 6 is electrically connected to the twisted pair arrangements of cores 2A and 2B.

[001 11 ] As shown in FIG. 2, and explained in more detail further below, in the present embodiment connector member 6 is inserted into channel 5 and subsequently rotated into an operative position (shown in FIG. 1) thereby to effect the mechanical coupling and electrical connection.

[001 12] FIG. 3 provides a perspective side view of the system of FIG. 1, showing insulated cores 2A and 2B partially inserted into a length of housing 4. As noted above, housing 4 is able to be sized at varying lengths for specific applications. For example, in some embodiments components are formed in standard lengths, and cut to size for specific applications. Likewise, cores 2A and 2B are cut to a desired length for specific purposes. In some cases cores are inserted into the housing prior to cutting.

[001 13] In the present embodiments, cores 2A and 2B, and housing 4, are preferably formed by extrusion from thermoplastics or the like. It will be appreciated that this is facilitated by a housing 4 of continuous cross section, and by the spiral configuration of cores 2A and 2B. In some cases the housing is formed from green rated or other suitable materials. ROHS compliant plastics are optionally used for various components, such as connector member 6. In some embodiments housing 4 is formed from aluminum or other metallic materials. In some cases the housing is partially or wholly defined by an existing structure.

[001 14] As shown in FIG. 3, housing 4 includes a pair of core supporting channels 10A and 10B into which cores 2A and 2B are longitudinally slid and subsequently supported. In the present embodiment, channels 10A and 10B are sized for a relatively "tight fit. Channels 10A and 10B are spaced apart, which assists in reducing interference between the respective twisted pairs of cores 2A and 2B. A locking channel 11 is formed intermediate channels 10A and 10B, this locking channel being configured for mechanical engagement with a locking lug 12 of connector member 6, as discussed further below. FIG. 7A to FIG. 7C provide illustrations of a length of housing 4 in isolation.

[001 15] FIG. 4A and FIG. 4B respectively provide side and end views of core 2A, shown supporting uninsulated conductors 3 A and 3B. However, as noted above, core 2B is of the same structure as core 2A, and so these FIGs could be equally considered as showing core 2B.

[001 16] Core 2A includes guide formations for maintaining the uninsulated conductors supported thereon in a predefined configuration. These guide formations presently take the form of grooves 15A and 15B which are recessed into the main cylindrical shaft 16 of core 2A. These grooves are typically of a depth between 25% and 75% of the diameter of the conductors, such that the conductors are held in place, but nevertheless outwardly presented for allowing electrical coupling upon contact. In some embodiments the conductors are flush with the core.

[001 17] Core 2A also includes a locating arrangement which interacts with a complementary locating arrangement on connector member 6 such that, upon insertion, the connector member is guided to a predetermined engagement configuration. In the present embodiment the locating arrangement includes a radially extending separator formation 17 spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core, or more particularly the main shaft 16. Although described as individual components, it should be noted that shaft 16 and formation 17 are integrally formed to define the core.

[001 18] Other embodiments make use of alternate locating arrangements. For example, in some embodiments the locating arrangement includes multiple radially extending separator formations (formation 17 is considered to be a single radially extending separator formation). In other embodiments the locating arrangement includes an array of apertures formed in the core, and the complementary locating arrangement includes one or more protrusions for insertion in a respective one or more of the apertures of the array. In some embodiments the conductors are outwardly presented to themselves provide the location arrangement (for example based on the configuration of FIG. 19).

[001 19] The manner by which the locating arrangement guides connector member 6 into an appropriate connection position is described in more detail further below. [00120] FIG. 5A and FIG. 5B illustrate an alternate core 20A, which includes guide formations in the form of grooves 19A to D for supporting two twisted pairs defined by conductors 30A to 30D. Otherwise, core 20A is similar to core 2A. It will be appreciated that core 20 A is well suited to embodiments where transmission standards favor a greater number of twisted pair arrangements.

[00121 ] Referring now to FIG. 6, a side view of system 1 is provided, showing connector member 6 connected to housing 4. Significant in the context of this representation is a feature whereby core supporting channels 10A and 10B are positioned relative to channel 5 such that cores 2A and 2B (and their respective twisted pairs) are partially visible via a horizontal view through channel 5. That is, channels 10A and 10B partially overlap with channel 5. This allows a horizontally inserted structure to contact with (and electrically couple to) the twisted pairs. Connector member 6 is configured for this purpose, and further configured to lock in place thereby to maintain electrical connection. FIG. 6 also illustrates an Ethernet port 49 for allowing connection of connector member 7 to an Ethernet network.

[00122] Further diagrams of connector member 6 are provided in FIG. 8A through FIG. 11B, with some of these showing the interaction between connector member 6 and housing 4, between connector member 6 and cores 2A and 2B, and between connector member 6 and the twisted pairs.

[00123] FIG. 8A and FIG. 8B provide front and rear perspective views of connector member 6. In the present FIGs, connector member 6 includes a substantially planar front face 40. In some embodiments a connection port, such as an Ethernet socket 49, is provided on this face. As discussed further below, in some embodiments connector member 6 includes components (such as an internally housed PCB) for interfacing an Ethernet socket with the twisted pairs thereby to allow network communications via system 1.

[00124] As noted above, a locking channel 11 is formed in housing 4 intermediate channels 10A and 10B, this locking channel being configured for mechanical engagement with a locking lug 12 of connector member 6.

[00125] Locking lug 12 has a width less than that of channel 11, and a height greater than the width of channel 11. In this manner, lug 11 is movable into and out of channel 11 when its width dimension is normal to the longitudinal axis of housing 4, but not when its height dimension is normal to the longitudinal axis of housing 4. This configuration allows locking of connector member 6 to housing 4. In particular, and as best shown in FIG. 9A and 9B, connector member 6 includes a main body 42 which this rotationally coupled to lug 12, and a connection plate 43 that is rotationally decoupled from main body 42 and lug 12. In this manner, the main body and lug are together rotatable with respect to the connection plate, thereby to define an operative configuration (shown in FIG. 9A) and an insertion configuration (shown in FIG. 9B). In practice, connector member 6 is initially manipulated into the insertion configuration, and inserted into housing 4. This moves lug 12 through channel 5 and into channel 11. Main body 42 is then rotated through 90 degrees to correspondingly move lug 12 through 90 degrees, and thereby position connector member 6 in the operative configuration. This locks connector member 6 in housing 4, and additionally electrically couples the connector member to the uninsulated conductors. Locking lug

12 includes a planer rear face and beveled edges on the front face, these beveled edges being profiled for abutting engagement with corresponding faces within channel 11, as best shown in FIG. 10B. This further assists in the locking action.

[00126] In terms of electrically coupling the connector member to the uninsulated conductors, connection plate 43 includes a plurality of electrical contacts 44, each being positioned for electrical coupling contact with respective conductors of the twisted pairs. These contacts are guided into place with respect to cores 2A and 2B by virtue of a locating arrangement 45, as foreshadowed above. To recap, core 2A includes a locating arrangement 45, in the form of radially extending separator formation 17 which is spirally wound about the core. This interacts with a complementary locating arrangement on the connector member such that, upon insertion, the connector member is guided to a predetermined engagement configuration.

[00127] In the present embodiment, the complementary locating arrangement is defined by a plurality of guide notches 45 formed in plate 43. These are profiled for receiving portions of separator formation 17, thus positioning plate 43 (and more importantly contacts 44) at a known position and predefined configuration relative to the twisted pairs on cores 2A and 2B. Furthermore, the shape of formation 17 assists in guiding connector member 6 into place, allowing for convenient insertion at substantially any point along the length of housing 4, whilst preventing connection at reversed polarities.

[00128] FIG. 12 provides a cut-away view of system 1, and is well adapted to show the manner by which separator formation 17 interacts with guide notches 45. It will be appreciated from this, and from discussion above, that formation 17 combines with notches 45 to facilitate electrical coupling of connector member 6 to the twisted pairs when connector member 6 is maintained in housing 4 in the operative configuration.

NETWORK DIAGRAM

[00129] The examples provided above focus primarily on the structural manner by which some embodiments are configured to allow the coupling of a connector member to a housed insulated core/exposed twisted pair arrangement. FIG. 13 provides a schematic illustration of the manner in which this technology is incorporated into a data network. It will be readily appreciated that this is not to scale.

[00130] In overview, system 1 includes circuitry for interfacing a network switch with the uninsulated conductors thereby to allow network data access via the conductors. Furthermore, connector member 6 includes a network plug connection for allowing connection of a networkable device to the data network. This allows a method for facilitating data access, the method including providing a system as described herein, connecting the or each pair of uninsulated conductors to a first network adapter and providing the connector member with a second network adapter, such that the electrical coupling of the connector member to the uninsulated conductors connects uninsulated conductors to the second network adapter, such that data is transferable between the first and second network adapters via the uninsulated conductors.

[00131 ] In the context of FIG. 13, the twisted pairs for cores 2A and 2B are coupled to a network adapter, presently illustrated in the form of input PCB 50. PCB 50 can be contained within a connector member 6, and is optionally defined by known components used for Ethernet-over-Coax applications. Examples include PCBs for devices configured for compliance with HomePNA 3.1 (ITU G.9954). One specific example is the CG3110H chipset, marketed by COPPERGATE. No permissions or affiliations should be inferred by the use of this example. PCB 50 is then connected to other network components, such as a switch (or router) 51, and/or a modem 52. [00132] In a further embodiment, connection to PCB 50 occurs adjacent one end of housing 4, and is optionally achieved by continuing the exposed conductors beyond the end of the insulating cores into traditional twisted pairs, which are then coupled to PCB 50 (optionally by combining the pairs and connecting them to an Ethernet plug).

[00133] The pair of twisted conductors on cores 2A and 2B are also connectable to a data network as a twisted pair arrangement along their length, such that the twisted conductors allow connection to the data network at varied locations along the length of the housing. As noted above, this is achieved by inserting and locking in place a connector member 6. Each connector member 6 includes (or is coupled to) a network adapter, presently illustrated in the form of an output PCB 53. PCB 53 is optionally defined by known components used for Ethernet-over-Coax applications, and is typically a low power component (and able to be powered by current flowing in conductors 3A and 3B), optionally being a similar component to PCB 50. In some embodiments such a PCB is configured for operation as either an input or output PCB, for example by simply adjusting a mechanical switch. PCB 53 is coupled (typically via Ethernet cables) to a networkable device, which in the present context is effectively any device having Ethernet capabilities. The example of a PC 54 is provided in FIG. 13, however various other devices such as printers, switches, routers, storage devices, and the like may also be present.

[00134] In effect, the present technology is integrated into a network environment using similar network adapters as are used in power line networking. However, the use of system 1 greatly improves the flexibility, operation, and performance of such arrangements.

ALTERNATE TWISTED PAIR EMBODIMENTS

[00135] Various alternate embodiments are briefly described below. These make use of similar insulated core/twisted pair arrangement technologies, but differ from the example above in terms of specific construction.

[00136] A first alternate embodiment is illustrated in FIG. 14 to FIG. 17. In this embodiment, a system 61 for facilitating data access includes an elongate insulating core 62. A pair of uninsulated conductors 63A and 63B are supported on the core, these being spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core. An elongate housing 64 supports core 62, the housing having a longitudinal channel 65 formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member 66 at varied points along the length of the housing. Much like with previous examples, the connector member is configured for electrically coupling to the uninsulated conductors following insertion into the channel.

[00137] The primary point of between system 61 and system 1 is in the configuration of core 62, and more particularly the locating arrangement which interacts with a complementary locating arrangement on the connector member such that, upon insertion, the connector member is guided to a predetermined engagement configuration. In this embodiment, the locating arrangement includes an array of apertures 68 formed in the core, and the complementary locating arrangement includes a protrusion 69 on connector member 66 which is inserted into a respective one or more of the apertures of the array. This insertion predictably positions the inserted connected member relative to the conductors, such that contacts 70 (similar to contacts 44) on the connector member are appropriately positioned for electrical coupling.

[00138] FIG. 18A and FIG. 18B illustrate an insulated core 80 according to a further embodiment. This is similar to core 2A, however without formation 16. As such, the core is cylindrical in appearance, although with spiral grooves for maintaining in place conductors 81A and 8 IB. A similar embodiment is shown in FIG. 19, which accentuates grooves in which the twisted conductors are seated. In some such embodiments one conductor may be larger (or more outwardly presented) than the other, thereby to facilitate one-way mechanical insertion and alignment, thereby to prevent external connection at incorrect polarities.

LINEAR ELECTRICAL CONDUCTOR ARRANGEMENT

[00139] Although the embodiments described above are primarily focused on arrangements using spirally wounds conductors, such an arrangement not necessary for all embodiments. That is, some embodiments extend to situations where linear or substantially conductors are mounted in a track-based arrangement. In such embodiments, an elongate housing mountable to a wall, and one or more elongate conductors supported in the housing. The conductors are configured for providing multipoint/multidrop access to a network. In broad terms, this simply requires an elongate channel channel disposed in the housing, such that an appropriately configured adaptor having an output PCB 53 can be inserted into the channel and contact with data-carrying conductors in the appropriate manner for data transfer.

[00140] The nature of electrical conductor varies between embodiments. One approach is to use a conductor such as those designed for track-based power distribution. One approach is to use a conductor that is substantially R-shaped in cross section, for instance that disclosed in PCT/AU2003/01691. In such cases, the cross-sectional shape of each conductor defines a wedge into which a corresponding terminal of the connector member is inserted thereby to provide electrical engagement between the conductor and connector member.

OPTIC FIBER ARRANGEMENTS

[00141 ] As noted above, in some embodiments the conductors take the form of optic fibers. That is, various embodiments provide a system for facilitating data access, the system including an elongate housing mountable to a wall, and one or more elongate optic fibers supported in the housing, the conductors being configured for providing multipoint/multidrop access to a network. In some embodiments the housing is formed of extruded aluminum, and is in some cases polished along one or more internal faces thereby to increase reflectivity.

[00142] The use of fiber optic technology greatly extends the available bandwidth and therefore allows bus topology to be feasible for use in modern local area networks requiring high bandwidth (1000 Mbps per endpoint). Furthermore, the cost of fiber optic technology cost has decreased greatly in recent times resulting in more wide spread utilization.

[00143] As in embodiments described above, the housing includes a channel into which a connector member is insterted thereby to facilitate coupling between the connector member and conductors (in this case being optical coupling). There are various known approaches for achieving optical coupling at varied points along the length of an optic fiber, and these are readily adapted for the present purposes. By way of example, the present embodiments are described by reference to the use of an evanescent coupling approach, based on that disclosed in US Patent 4,688,882 (i.e. using a fixed ration evanescent coupler). [00144] An evanescent coupler uses physical connection between optically polished faces of a pair of optic fibers to effectively couple those fibers at a functional lever when the polished faces are brought into contact with one another. In the present embodiment the fibers are continuous lengths, each having a respective optically polished continuous face, which is intern enclosed within a track housing. The connector member includes, for each optic fiber, a corresponding optic fiber portion having a respective polished face, wherein following insertion of the connector member the polished faces of the optic fiber portions are respectively brought into contact with the polished faces of their corresponding optic fibers. This is shown in FIG. 20, which provides a partial schematic view of one embodiment. An optic fiber 100 is maintained withing a housing (not shown). Optic fiber 100 includes a polished face 101. A connector member includes an optic fiber portion 103, including a polished face 104. Optic fiber portion 103 is coupled to a fiber optic to Ethernet converter provided by the connector member. Connector member 102 is configured such that, following insertion into the channel of the housing (not shown), face 104 is brought into contact with face 101 to achieve optical coupling.

[00145] Multiple sets of fixed (or variable) ratio Evanescent couplers are provided on connector members, which are able to be connected substantially anywhere along the length of the housing, thereby providing a multipoint/multidrop data networking arrangement.

[00146] FIG. 21 and 22 provides a more abstracted view of an optic arrangement. In this case, two optic fibers are provided 120 and 121, being a transmit line and a receive line (TX and RX). These extend between a pair of Ethernet to fiber converters 122 (or optionally a loop arrangement is used), and are housed within a track housing for much of that length thereby to allow for multipoint/multidrop networking. A connector member 123 includes a pair of evanescent couplers 124 and 125, which respectively couple to the TX and RX fibers 120 and 121. The connector member also includes a Ethernet to fiber converter 130, which is in optical communication with the evanescent couplers 124 and 125, and provides a point of connection 131 to an Ethernet network, for example via an Ethernet socket. In this regard, connector member 123 may outwardly resemble those connectors illustrated in the context of previous examples. FIG. 22 illustrates a pair of connector members 123 coupled to a length of housing L, this length of housing additionally including an optical amplifier 140.

[00147] In some embodiments, such as that of FIG. 22„ each length of housing includes an amplifier and/or Ethernet converter at each end. In other embodiments those components are shared between multiple lengths of housing.

CONCLUSIONS AND INTERPRETATION

[00148] It will be appreciated that the above disclosure provides various advantageous systems, methods and devices for facilitating data access. For example, by installing system 1 on walls in a home or office, it is possible to avoid a need to install large amounts of Ethernet wiring (along with ducting and other infrastructure to carry that wiring, for example in an under-floor arrangement) as would otherwise be required for a point to point network topology. By way of example, a single implementation of system 1 can replace in the order of forty Ethernet cables (and associated ducting), by allowing in the order of forty devices to connect along a length of the core-containing housing. In a traditional arrangement, those devices would be individually wired to one or more switches. Furthermore, the present system, or elements thereof, are easily removed and/or reinstalled, unlike conventional wall/ceiling cavity cables.

[00149] Unless specifically stated otherwise, as apparent from the following discussions, it is appreciated that throughout the specification discussions utilizing terms such as "processing," "computing," "calculating," "determining", analyzing" or the like, refer to the action and/or processes of a computer or computing system, or similar electronic computing device, that manipulate and/or transform data represented as physical, such as electronic, quantities into other data similarly represented as physical quantities.

[00150] It should be appreciated that in the above description of exemplary embodiments of the invention, various features of the invention are sometimes grouped together in a single embodiment, FIG., or description thereof for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure and aiding in the understanding of one or more of the various inventive aspects. This method of disclosure, however, is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed invention requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the following claims reflect, inventive aspects lie in less than all features of a single foregoing disclosed embodiment. Thus, the claims following the Detailed Description are hereby expressly incorporated into this Detailed Description, with each claim standing on its own as a separate embodiment of this invention.

[00151 ] Furthermore, while some embodiments described herein include some but not other features included in other embodiments, combinations of features of different embodiments are meant to be within the scope of the invention, and form different embodiments, as would be understood by those skilled in the art. For example, in the following claims, any of the claimed embodiments can be used in any combination.

[00152] In the description provided herein, numerous specific details are set forth.

However, it is understood that embodiments of the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known methods, structures and techniques have not been shown in detail in order not to obscure an understanding of this description.

[00153] Similarly, it is to be noticed that the term coupled, when used in the claims, should not be interpreted as being limited to direct connections only. The terms "coupled" and "connected," along with their derivatives, may be used. It should be understood that these terms are not intended as synonyms for each other. Thus, the scope of the expression a device A coupled to a device B should not be limited to devices or systems wherein an output of device A is directly connected to an input of device B. It means that there exists a path between an output of A and an input of B which may be a path including other devices or means. "Coupled" may mean that two or more elements are either in direct physical or electrical contact, or that two or more elements are not in direct contact with each other but yet still co-operate or interact with each other.

[00154] Thus, while there has been described what are believed to be the preferred embodiments of the invention, those skilled in the art will recognize that other and further modifications may be made thereto without departing from the spirit of the invention, and it is intended to claim all such changes and modifications as fall within the scope of the invention.

Claims

THE CLAIMS DEFINING THE INVENTION ARE AS FOLLOWS:

1. A system for facilitating data access, the system including:

an elongate housing mountable to a wall; and

one or more elongate conductors supported in the housing, wherein the conductors are configured for providing multipoint/multidrop access to a network.

2. A system according to claim 1 wherein the housing includes a channel, and wherein a connector member is insertable into the channel, wherein the connector member is configured for coupling to the elongate conductors following insertion into the channel.

3. A system according to claim 2 wherein the conductors are electrical conductors, and the coupling includes electrical coupling of the connector member to the elongate conductors.

4. A system according to claim 3 including one or more elongate insulating cores supported within the housing, wherein the conductors are arranged in pairs of uninsulated electrical conductors, each pair being supported on a respective core, wherein the conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core.

5. A system according to claim 3 wherein the electrical conductors are substantially linear electrical conductors.

6. A system according to claim 2 wherein the conductors are optic fibers, and the coupling includes optical coupling of the connector member to the elongate conductors.

7. A system according to claim 6 wherein the optical coupling is by way of an evanescent coupler.

8. A system according to claim 6 wherein each optic fiber includes a polished face, and wherein the connector member includes, for each optic fiber, a corresponding optic fiber portion having a respective polished face, wherein following insertion of the connector member the polished faces of the optic fiber portions are respectively brought into contact with the polished faces of their corresponding optic fibers.

9. A system according to claim any preceding claim wherein the connector member includes a network plug connection for allowing connection of a networkable device to the data network.

10. A system according to any preceding claim wherein the connector member includes a network adapter for allowing networked data transfer via the conductors.

11. A system for facilitating data access, the system including:

one or more elongate insulating cores;

for the or each core, a pair of uninsulated electrical conductors supported on the core, wherein the electrical conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core;

an elongate housing for supporting the insulating core or cores, the housing having a longitudinal channel formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member at multiple points along the length of the housing; and

a connector member insertable into the channel, wherein the connector member is configured for electrically coupling to the uninsulated electrical conductors following insertion into the channel.

12. A system according to claim 11 wherein the pair of uninsulated electrical conductors provide an exposed twisted pair arrangement.

13. A system according to claim 11 or claim 12 wherein for the or each core, more than one pair of uninsulated electrical conductors supported on the core, wherein the electrical conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core.

14. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 13 wherein the pair of twisted electrical conductors are connectable to a data network as a twisted pair arrangement, such that the twisted electrical conductors allow connection to the data network at multiple locations along the length of the housing.

15. A system according to claim 14 wherein the connector member includes a network plug connection for allowing connection of a networkable device to the data network.

16. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 15 wherein the or each core includes guide formations for maintaining the uninsulated electrical conductors supported thereon in a predefined configuration.

17. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 16wherein the or each core includes a locating arrangement which interacts with a complementary locating arrangement on the connector member such that, upon insertion, the connector member is guided to a predetermined engagement configuration.

18. A system according to claim 17 wherein the locating arrangement prevents electrical connections from being reversed in polarity.

19. A system according to claim 17 wherein the locating arrangement includes one or more radially extending separator formations.

20. A system according to claim 17 wherein the locating arrangement includes a radially extending separator formation spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core.

21. A system according to claim 17 wherein the locating arrangement includes an array of apertures formed in the core, and wherein the complementary locating arrangement includes one or more protrusions for insertion in a respective one or more of the apertures of the array.

22. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 21wherein the housing is rigid.

23. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 22 including a network adapter for allowing networked data transfer via the electrical conductors.

24. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 13wherein the connector member, following insertion into the channel, is selectively movable in to and out of an operative configuration wherein the connector member is electrically coupled to the uninsulated electrical conductors.

25. A system according to any one of claims 11 to 24 wherein, for the or each core, multiple pairs of uninsulated electrical conductors supported are on the core, wherein the electrical conductors are each spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core;

26. An insulating core configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

27. A housing configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

28. A connector member configured for use in a system according to any one of claims 1 to 25.

29. A method for facilitating data access, the method including:

providing a system according to any one of claims 1 to 25;

connecting the or each pair of uninsulated electrical conductors to a first network adapter;

providing the connector member with a second network adapter, such that the electrical coupling of the connector member to the uninsulated electrical conductors connects uninsulated electrical conductors to the second network adapter, such that data is transferable between the first and second network adapters via the uninsulated electrical conductors.

30. A component for use in system for facilitating data access, the component including: an elongate body; and

a pair of electrical conductor retaining channels formed in the body, the channels being spirally wound about the body along the axis of the body for supporting a pair of uninsulated electrical conductors, wherein the pair of electrical conductors operate as a twisted pair for the purposes of data access.

31. A method for facilitating data access, the method including:

spirally winding a pair of uninsulated electrical conductors about an elongate insulating core;

locating the insulating core in a housing, the housing being configured for allowing external connection to the uninsulated electrical conductors at various positions along the length of the housing.

32. A system for facilitating data access, the system including: at least one elongate insulating core having a pair of uninsulated electrical conductors supported thereon, wherein the electrical conductors are spirally wound about the core along the axis of the core;

an elongate housing for supporting the insulating core or cores, the housing having a longitudinal channel formed therein for allowing insertion of a connector member at varied points along the length of the housing, thereby to allow electrically coupling of the connector member to the uninsulated electrical conductors.

33. A system for facilitating data access, the system including:

an elongate insulating core; and

a pair of electrical conductors supported by the core, wherein the electrical conductors are at least partially uninsulated for allowing electrical connection to the electrical conductors via mechanical coupling at multiple points along the length of the core;

wherein the pair of electrical conductors are configured for data transfer.

34. A system according to claim 33 wherein the pair of electrical conductors functionally provide a twisted pair arrangement.